Small Steps Toward Safer Online Payments

Before paying for something online, check that the seller, product, price, and delivery or collection arrangements match what you discussed. Read the payment instructions carefully and make sure you understand whether you are paying the seller directly or using a platform service.

Be wary of sudden changes to account details, demands for secrecy, or pressure to send money immediately. If a payment request arrives through a new channel, confirm it using a separate, trusted contact method. Never share a PIN, password, or one-time security code with a seller or caller.

Keep receipts and relevant messages until the transaction is complete. If something goes wrong, contact the payment provider through its official channel as soon as possible. These precautions cannot eliminate every risk, but they help people pause, verify, and make a more informed decision.